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William Henry Fenton D.C.M Coldstream Guards

Charles24th

New Member
Hi There.
Just joined the forum...and not very tech savvy. So bear with me. Just wondering if you guys would have access to a photo / picture of the above soldier from World War 1?
I also have the following information on him
William Henry Fenton was born at Smithwick, Birmingham. A labourer by occupation, he attested for the Coldstream Guards in June 1907, aged 18 years, 6 months. Posted to the 2nd Battalion, he was soon in trouble, awaiting trial, being absent without leave, in December 1907. Found guilty he was detained for 1 week. With the battalion he served in Egypt from January 1909-March 1911. Returning to England and posted to the 3rd Battalion, he deserted on 14 July 1912. Fenton returned to service on 14 August 1914 - thereby gaining the King’s Pardon for his desertion. Under the terms of Army Orders September 1914, published on 7 August 1914, pardons were to be granted to all those who were in a state of desertion from regular forces on 5 August 1914, who then surrendered themselves on or before 4 September 1914 in the U.K. or 4 October 1914 if overseas.

Having returned to service, Fenton was posted to the 2nd Battalion Coldstream Guards and entered the France and Flanders theatre of war on 30 August 1914, being appointed Lance-Sergeant in October 1916. In early 1917, the battalion was south of Arras and involved in following up the German retreat to the Hindenburg line. It was here, near Sailly Saillisel on 14/15th March, that Lance-Sergeant Fenton earned his D.C.M. He was subsequently mentioned in despatches and returned home on 10 July 1917, being later awarded the Silver War Badge.

Sounds a real character as well as being very brave with it.
Appreciate any information
Best regards
Charles.

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Charles24th

Yesterday at 11:35 PM
Also have his citation for the D.C.M.
D.C.M. London Gazette 26 April 1917: ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He went forward alone under the most intense fire, and obtained information of the utmost importance. Later, he assumed command of his platoon, and led them forward in a most gallant manner. He has on many previous occasions done fine work.’
 
The search results are a bit garbled but I wonder if this could be him mentioned in the Huddersfield Daily Examiner, 11 Apr 1917. It seems to say a William Fenton, sergeant in the Coldstream Guards receiving a DCM. A coincidence if there were two of them.
 
On 1911 census he is listed with the 3rd battalion coldstream guards based in Tower of london.

He is listed as a sergeant in Edinburgh Gazette entry for the DCM
 
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